“I didn’t see that coming,” Jeroboam must have thought. What else could have been going on in Jeroboam’s head when the prophet Ahijah tore his new cloak into twelve pieces? His fate was sealed that day in the field (as was King Solomon’s). Did you catch the intended parallel of Saul’s cloak, in 1 Samuel 15:27-28.
Don’t you sometimes wish you’d happen upon your own Ahijah with an assignment from the Lord? Especially if you are stuck asking the question, “What am I going to be when I grow up?” At almost 60 years of age, I find myself still asking that. Of course, having retired once, my next adventure is to honor God – but how?
You may have asked yourself that same question. Similar would be, “How can I honor God with my work?” He will show you. Try imagining God as your client or your co-worker. Would you act differently? Pretty sure we all would if we think about it that way.
Having heard that God was going to give me a kingdom to rule, that would have rocked my world. Jeroboam had been recruited by King Solomon, and now he been privy to information King Solomon probably didn’t even know yet. God had plans in place, and Jeroboam was God’s latest recruit. I’m sure Jeroboam was a bit fearful to be in Solomon’s presence now.
I would have left town, too, I think. Solomon apparently found out and wanted to eliminate Jeroboam. That wasn’t quite a happy master, handing out exit bonuses for a job well done. Jeroboam was wise to wait out King Solomon’s reign. Afterall, his own “season” didn’t start until Solomon was dead.
That wasn’t much of a “rebellion” as the story begins. That’s my kind of rebellion – the non-confrontational kind! But it was a change of heart. Jeroboam is portrayed as industrious and respectful of King Solomon. Then he realizes he has a God-assignment to become Israel’s next king. A bit of a conflict of interest there.
This passage also closes an era or season for Solomon’s reign as king. Forty years is a good run. You may also know that King Solomon is given credit for having written all or parts of the following books of the Bible: Ecclesiastes, Proverbs, and Song of Songs.
Take a deep breath (or two) and get ready for the saga of the kings to continue.
Let’s pray …
Lord, I need your help to see the direction you have for me today. I’m excited for what you have set in motion. Help me to follow through in the ways I have promised. Thank you for the reminder of the importance to trust and obey. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
